Planning to travel from DXB? Here's what you need to know

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is still grappling with operational disruptions following the highest recorded rainfall in 75 years, causing significant flight and baggage handling delays. 

Passengers on flights that were diverted are being repatriated or disembarked at alternative locations, and those with cancelled or rescheduled flights are advised to contact their airlines for luggage and flight status updates. 

While the airport remains open, it is operating a limited number of flights and authorities urge travellers not to visit unless their flights are confirmed. 

Access roads to DXB are still being cleared of floodwaters, leading to longer than usual wait times for taxis. 

The airport is coordinating with service partners to ensure the availability of food and refreshments for stranded passengers, despite challenges with supply due to the flooded infrastructure.

Passengers delayed at Dubai International Airport. (Credit: AFP)

In an update on social media, DXB answered some of the most common questions travellers were asking.

We have compiled them below: 

I have a flight scheduled. Should I go to the airport?

You should head to the airport only if your flight's departure has been confirmed by your airline. Check your flight status before leaving for the airport to avoid unnecessary travel.

In a statement to ARN News, a Dubai Airports spokesperson said: “Dubai Airports advises passengers against visiting Terminal 1 unless they have received confirmation from their airline regarding their flight departure. Due to crowding, access to Terminal 1 is now strictly limited to passengers with confirmed departures.”

Is the airport open?

DXB remains open but is operating a limited number of flights. It is advised not to travel to the airport unless it is absolutely necessary to do so.

My flight has been diverted. How do I get to DXB?

If your flight was diverted, arrangements are being made either to return you to DXB or to disembark at alternative locations within the region. Passengers should contact their respective airlines for real-time updates on their flight status.

❓ My flight has been diverted. How do I get to DXB?
💬 Guests on diverted flights will either be repatriated back to DXB or disembarked at alternative locations in the region. Please check with your airline for status updates.

— DXB (@DXB) April 17, 2024

I checked in my bags, but my flight was rescheduled/cancelled. When will I get my bags back?

The record-breaking rainfall has disrupted baggage handling operations significantly. The airport is collaborating with service partners to return baggage to passengers as swiftly as possible under the circumstances.

How do I get to DXB/leave DXB to get to my home/hotel?

Access roads to the airport are still being cleared of floodwater. Although taxi availability is on the rise, passengers should anticipate longer waiting times for taxis and other forms of transportation.

How can I get food while I'm at DXB?

Efforts are ongoing to provide refreshments to waiting passengers, despite challenges with supply shortages caused by flooded access routes. 
Food distribution is active across all terminals, with Terminal 3's restaurants also accepting meal vouchers.